Shark Experts Praise Marine Reserve

CALLING it an area of “unequalled ecological importance”, the Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation applauded government’s support of the proposed North Bimini Marine Reserve – but also urged decision-makers and developers to pull out all the stops to protect the island’s environment.

The foundation, known locally as the “Sharklab” for its groundbreaking work with the marine predators for which Bimini is a vital habitat, noted that the island’s pristine waters are the centrepiece of local appreciation and tourism appeal.

“In January of this year, the Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation (Sharklab) was honoured to receive the prestigious Cacique Award in the Sustainable Tourism category.

“In winning the Cacique Award, we feel compelled to reiterate what is unanimously understood as the principle centrepiece of Bimini’s tourism product, and that is the majestic, pristine waters surrounding these islands,” wrote Dr Samuel Gruber, Sharklab founder, president and one of the world’s leading authorities on marine life.